After an overnight flight to the United Arab Emirates on Day 1, you’ll arrive in Dubai on Day 2. A decadent emirate overlooking the Persian Sea, Dubai is known for the Burj Khalifa, the earth’s tallest building at a height of more than 2,700 ft. On Day 3, you’ll visit the top of the building, giving you a bird’s-eye view of Dubai in all its grandeur. Inside the building, visitors can peruse an extensive collection of works by local artists.

Inspired by the mythical lost city of Atlantis, the Lost Chambers Aquarium at Atlantis, the Palm hotel is made up of a labyrinthine network of underwater tunnels. These aquariums house more than 60,000 exotic aquatic creatures—including seahorses, eels, and sharks—that you can interact with at the touch-tank exhibits.

The group spends the rest of Day 3 exploring priceless gold and platinum at the Gold Souk, then perusing dioramas that depict historic scenes and local life at the Dubai Museum, located inside the Al Fahidi Fort, an 18th-century fortress that’s the oldest building in Dubai.

Days 4–5 are set aside for visitors to explore Dubai at leisure. Optional side tours (additional fees) include a desert safari in a 4x4 to cruise through the surrounding sand dunes and a visit to a Bedouin camp for dinner and to watch belly dancers perform.

Your time in Dubai comes to a close with a Dhow cruise dinner, where you’ll sip on Arabic coffee and dine on buffet-style local cuisine while cruising down Dubai Creek.

On Day 6, the tour will head to Al Ain, often called the “Garden City” for its lush landscape and mountain springs that differ from the surrounding desert. Here, an ancient fajal irrigation system hydrates nearly 150,000 date palms.

One of the highlights of this leg of the trip is the Sheikh Zayed Palace Museum. This century-old former residence of the iconic founder of the United Arab Emirates houses artifacts that reveal the region’s rich history. You’ll also get a closer feel for the culture at the Al Ain National Museum, home to ancient Bedouin jewelry, pottery, and gold weapons. Before heading to Abu Dhabi for the night, you’ll observe local trade at the camel market.

On Day 7, you’ll take a city tour of Abu Dhabi with a stop at the Grand Mosque, one of the earth’s largest mosques. The impressive structure is topped with more than 80 domes and features an imposing 12-ton chandelier and 1,000 structural columns. At night, the mosque and its surrounding reflecting pools are illuminated to resemble lunar phases.

Before leaving the United Arab Emirates, take a stroll or bike ride along Abu Dhabi’s waterfront boulevard, The Corniche, which is lined with decorative fountains, boutiques, and romantic spots to watch the sun set.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much would it cost to fly from an airport not listed as part of this deal?
The supplemental fee is subject to departure date and availability at the time of booking. For information regarding a specific departure date, please call (800) 682-3333 to speak with a Gate 1 Travel Reservation Specialist.<p>

2. Can we extend our trip before or after the promotional dates for the deal?
Yes, you may extend your trip for a supplemental fee at the time of booking.<p>

3. How do I find out if the dates I want to travel are available?
The dates available are listed on each option.<p>

4. What happens if I buy the Groupon and my travel dates are not available?
You can either choose another date or be refunded by Groupon. We suggest calling Gate 1 Travel to redeem your vouchers ASAP so that you do not run into this problem.<p>

5. Does my child need a Groupon, and can they stay in my room?
Yes, each person traveling (including children) needs to purchase a voucher. Your child may stay in your room, however there are limits as to how many people per room. Triples are available on this tour.<p>

What You Get

Starting at $1,699 per person, 8-day/6-night Dubai & Abu Dhabi tour

13 options available, including departures in October-April from New York (EWR, JFK or LGA, based on availability)

Note: All options priced per person and valid for a Travel with a Friend package (two Groupons required), or pay an additional $515 fee to travel solo. Read about package structures here.

Policies and Fees

For all options, book by: 7/16/13

Cancellation policy & fees: Redemption occurs upon booking with Gate 1 Travel; no refunds processed by Groupon after redemption. $100 fee per person to cancel. 46-day cancellation notice required or fee of 50% of Groupon price; 31 days or of 90% of Groupon price; 2 days or fee up to Groupon price. Airfare nonrefundable once ticketed.